The Spellbinding Neighbourhoods of Singapore

20 April 2022

From heritage districts such as Chinatown to the fun delights of Sentosa Island, Singapore is blessed with an array of neighbourhoods that each have their distinctive charm and character. We’ve looked at some of our favourites.

We’re also glad to report a change in entry requirements for this wonderful destination, with fully vaccinated visitors now able to enter without the need to undergo quarantine or on-arrival Covid testing. At the time of writing, you need to take a Covid test (PCR or antigen) within the two days prior to departure and to be able to show your result. Children under 12 are exempt from the vaccination requirement.

Sentosa Island

Dubbed the ‘State of Fun’, this island is known for its thrilling attractions, its beaches and its luxury hotels – all reached in 15 minutes from the city centre by cable-car with bird’s-eye views, mono rail, taxi or public transport. The newest attraction is the SkyHelix, and action seekers have options such as, iFly Singapore, the world’s largest wind tunnel for indoor skydiving, with panoramic beach and South China Sea views, the Mega Adventure Park, with Southeast Asia’s steepest zip wire, and the Hydrodash floating aquapark.

Other attractions on the island include the Sentosa Nature Discovery nature trail with its local wildlife and heritage trees, and Madame Tussauds Singapore. Also here are endless local and international dining options from casual to fine dining.

Marina Bay

This area reclaimed from the sea is Singapore at its most contemporary and stylish, with architectural landmarks including the Marina Bay Sands hotel with its famous Skypark featuring an infinity pool and observation deck, the ArtScience Museum™, and the Gardens by the Bay with their futuristic Supertrees. Marina Bay has a pretty waterfront promenade with its artistic sculptures which takes you to Marina Reservoir to see kite flyers, dragon boat races and musical performances, while Esplanade – Theatres on the Bay hosts world-class performances.

The shopping in this district is also out of this world, with Louis Vuitton’s Island Maison store, the designer boutiques of The Shoppes at Marina Bay Sands, and the jewellery stores and other speciality shops of Marina Square just some of your options.

Kampong Gelam

One of Singapore's oldest urban quarters, Kampong Gelam perfectly blends a rich history with a vibrant love for arts and entertainment. For a deep dive into the history of Kampong Gelam, visit the Malay Heritage Centre which is home to six galleries and offers a range of cultural activities to immerse yourself in. Spot the golden dome of the majestic Sultan Mosque and tour the grounds of one of the most prominent religious buildings in Singapore.

Kampong Gelam takes on a whole new life after the sun sets, with live music bars and hip restaurants abound along Haji Lane. There are plenty of popular spots to try local delicacies and soak in the lively atmosphere.

Chinatown

Singapore’s largest heritage neighbourhood brings together cultural treasures, architectural gems and hip haunts in one compelling mix. One of its major sights is the Buddha Tooth Relic Temple & Museum with its Tang Dynasty-inspired architecture. But you’ll also find the Hindu Sri Mariamman Temple with its six-tiered gopuram and the Masjid Jamae mosque with its distinctive octagonal minarets.

Don’t miss the Mohamed Ali Lane Murals depicting scenes from the city’s past and present, and make sure to drop into Tong Heng for one of their famous egg tarts, red bean paste pastries or lao po bing – pastries with winter melon, almond paste and sesame.

To book your Singapore break or for more information, call your Travel Counsellor today.